Earl D. Rice

Of Jackson, went to be with the Lord on Friday, April 24, 2015 at the age of 80. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Sava Rice; three children, Karyn (John Bennett) Kitchen, Mike (Michelle) Rice, Patricia Rice and her fiancé, Mark Smith; two grandchildren, Emily and Zachary; siblings, Onnalee Hoover and Dale (Carolyn) Rice as well as several nieces, nephews, loving family members and friends. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sister, Verla Rice. Earl was born on May 9, 1934 in Bellevue, MI to Charles and Florence (Hubbard) Rice. After graduating from Union City High School he served in the U.S. Navy; then received an Engineering Degree from Tri State University in Angola, IN. He retired from Sparton Electronics after 36 years of service, was a loving family man, loyal friend and avid U of M fan. He touched the hearts of many and will be greatly missed. Earl had a strong faith in the Lord and attended Jackson Free Methodist Church (2829 Park Dr. Jackson 49203) where a service honoring his life will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 at 12:00 noon. The family will receive friends for visitation at the funeral home on Tuesday, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. He will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery in Union City, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jackson Free Methodist Church or Cardiac Rehab of Allegiance Health.